I ride Alafia and Boyette weekly,

I'm addicted,

The bikes from big box stores will get the job done, but for a little more you get so much more,,just sayin..

My entry level Scott hard tail with wet brakes was $625 tax Included. I out grew the fork after the first year, stripped off the front gears after the second year and wanted full suspension during the third summer,,

My current bike is now a 1x11 and serves me well,,,I dig North Creek and roller coaster at Alafia and The Spider Berm and Swamp thing at Boyette~~~~
You have to earn it at Boyette, It's my favorite.

Buy a bike and wear it out,,then buy better as your skills grow,,ride on